Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care has confirmed his retirement from international rugby with 101 caps for England and 15 years of loyal service.
The 37-year-old, who has a record 369 Quins appearances, has called time on his Test career after five matches for England during this year’s Guinness Six Nations, including his 100th cap in the 23-22 win over Ireland.
Born in Leeds, Care made his England debut at the age of 21, replacing Richard Wigglesworth in the 37-20 defeat to New Zealand in June 2008. A regular in the England squad over the next decade, Care won the Six Nations in 2011, before helping England to the Grand Slam in 2016 and Six Nations title in 2017.
He was also a key part of the touring squad that whitewashed Australia in the summer of 2016.
Care also featured at two Rugby World Cups, earning selection for England in 2015, before being called-up to the 2023 World Cup in France, making six appearances and helping Steve Borthwick’s side to the World Cup semi-final against South Africa.
Retiring as just the sixth men’s player to achieve 100 caps for England, Care hangs up his international boots with 15 tries from his 15 years, alongside three drop-goals.
Harlequins Director of Rugby Billy Millard commented:
“We’re incredibly proud of Danny and everything he has achieved for England. He’s been the ultimate professional for the past 15 years and worked extremely hard to fight his way back to achieve 101 caps. It’s a huge testament to his character, hard work and professionalism and we congratulate him on a fantastic England career and look forward to his continued impact at Quins.”